Landscapes of embodiment: a process for design and an avenue for healing

This paper explores the intersection of healing, movement, and landscape architecture, focusing on the concept of therapeutic movement. Drawing from the author's background in both landscape architecture and dance, the research investigates how outdoor environments can be designed to facilitate healing through mindful movement practices. By examining existing outdoor spaces designed for various purposes such as recreation, yoga, tai chi, and other forms of mindful movement, the study seeks to understand how landscape architects can integrate therapeutic movement into their designs. The research is centered on a design project situated in Blacksburg, VA, proposing the seamless transformation of unused areas to a nature park tailored for therapeutic movement, adjacent to actively used recreational areas. Throughout the paper, the author engages with topics including the human experience of landscapes, the therapeutic value of movement, and the design considerations for creating healing landscapes. By analyzing practices such as Dance/Movement Therapy, Yoga Therapy, and Tai Chi, the paper offers insights into how landscapes can enhance healing benefits and foster a deeper connection to oneself, community, and the landscape. The proposed design guidelines aim to inform future landscape architecture projects, contributing to the field's understanding of designing spaces for therapeutic movement and promoting holistic well-being.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Landscape Architecture

Level thesis:degree_level

masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Landscape Architecture

Department dc:contributor.department

Landscape Architecture

Grantor dc:publisher

Virginia Tech

Year dc:date.issued

2024

Author dc:creator

• Adams, Caitlin Brighid

Chair dc:contributor.committeechair

• Kim, Mintai

Committee members dc:contributor.committeemember

• Clements, Terry Lynn
• Hardwig, George Scott

• Movement
• Therapeutic Movement
• Healing
• Nature park
• Embodiment

Statement dc:rights

• In Copyright

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

Language dc:language.iso

en

Dc Identifier Other

vt_gsexam:39717

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/119055